Hot weather advice for staff

As temperatures rise further from next week, and following the Met Office’s red extreme heat warning in place for Monday 18 July and Tuesday 19 July, we wanted to share some advice for those working on campus on how to stay cool during the warm weather.

Importantly, we aren’t anticipating significant changes in our on campus operations, but will be seeking to support staff and mitigate the impact of the heat.

Accessible spaces that are cooled and/or have air conditioning

Building spaces to consider working in that are accessible include the Bramall, the Barber Institute, Muirhead Tower and the New Library.

Other naturally cooler spaces

On campus there are additional naturally cooler workspaces including North facing areas, such as; Aston Webb Lower floors and some corridors plus the University Centre.

Cooled spaces open to visitors

For spaces open to staff and visitors, the options are also locally cooled spaces such as most coffee and food facilities. These include the Costa University Centre, Food Courts University Centre, Library Café, Bramall Café, Muirhead Tower and Bournbrook Starbucks. Additionally the Hotel and Sports Centre are also cooled spaces.

Helpful tips for staying cool

  • Dress comfortably – Opt for clothing made of breathable materials, such as cotton, linen, or jersey and unless you are meeting external visitors or involved in graduation ceremonies please feel free to dress more informally and wear shorts, sundresses or similar
  • We recognise that there may be some disruption to public transport – if you do have concerns about getting to work or how the extreme temperatures might affect your ability to work in your usual way please speak to your line manager
  • Please make sure to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle with you to campus and make sure to fill it up via office kitchens or other water stations.
  • Watch out for signs of heat-related illness
  • Stay cool indoors. Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
  • For cool air in office areas, try freezing water bottles and putting them in front of a fan
  • Try to keep out of the sun between 11:00 to 15:00, when the UV rays are strongest.

Useful links

NHS Guidance on heat exhaustion and heatstroke 

NHS Guidance on how to cope in hot weather

MetOffice Advice

MetOffice: find a forecast

National Rail Travel Advice

National Highways Travel Guidance

Colleges

Professional Services